But some people's affinity for books stretches to an entirely different level. They love all books - romance, travel, sci-fi, how-to, self-help, inspirational, deprecating, fiction, non-fiction, historical, kitschy. They love the freshness of starting a new book, the rush of getting to the "good part," and the slight sadness when the experience is over, which is quickly replaced by the anticipation of the next adventure that will enthrall them. I can readily identify with these people. I am the Gift Guru, and I am addicted to books.
If your recipient is anything like me - someone who always has her nose in a book, stops by the local bookstore on his way home every day, or repeatedly asks you "Read any good books lately?" - then you, dear reader, are shopping for a bookworm. Here are a few tips to help feed your recipient's insatiable need for books:
eReaders and Accessories
These gadgets are all the rage right now among serious readers. They allow readers easy access to and storage for lots of books, magazines, and newspapers, and some offer additional features like Wi-Fi, 3G, and online bookstores. The two most popular dedicated models are Amazon's Kindle and Barnes & Noble's NOOK.
Kindle's $139 version (above) has Wi-Fi and the $189 version has Wi-Fi + 3G. Find accessories at Amazon's Kindle store.
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| NOOK color (above) starts at $249 and the original NOOK sells for $149 and up. Barnes & Noble is also offering 50% off stylish NOOK original and color accessories for a limited time. |
Memberships
Although they may seem expensive to casual shoppers, annual membership programs are essential for any serious book buyer. Your bookworm recipient will immediately see savings on his book purchases and will likely get special offers from the store as well. My favorites are Barnes & Noble ($25), Books-A-Million ($20), and Amazon Prime ($79).
FEED Read 3 bag
The FEED Foundation, which I mentioned here, offers a great bag for book lovers. For $25.00 they will donate 3 books and 3 school meals to needy children and your recipient gets a nifty bag, shown here and available on the FEED website.
Gift Cards
Sometimes the best gift for a book addict is, unsurprisingly, more books. A gift card to his favorite bookstore is always a great present, and will save you the time and stress of trying to determine what books he already has, might want, or has absolutely no interest in. If your bookworm has (or is getting) an eReader, a gift card for new ebooks or accessories is a nice choice.
Languages and Editions
Every bookworm has her favorite books and, following the rule of jewelry and chocolate, there is no such thing as too much. Consider getting her a different edition than the one(s) she owns, such as a first edition (sure to win you major points) or special collector's edition. Abe Books has a great selection of hard-to-find books, especially first editions. If you are feeling especially gracious, consider giving a first edition of The Catcher in the Rye - it's only $22,500!
I started a new tradition on my last trip to Europe to commemorate my favorite novel, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I bought a copy of the book in the language of each country I visited. I enjoyed visiting different countries' bookstores and now I have a lovely little collection (French, German, and Spanish) that will continue to grow as I travel. I am willing to bet that your bookworm would love a foreign edition of her favorite book, especially in its original language and/or country of publishing (or bought at a special bookstore, like Shakespeare and Company in Paris). I know that the Harry Potter books, among others, have different cover art in the UK than in the US, and some even have different titles!
I bought the French version of Pride and Prejudice in Montmartre, Paris, but it's also available from Amazon
Secret Storage Books
Secret storage books (aka hollow books) provide another interesting twist on traditional books and allow your recipient to hide items almost in plain sight. You can find books with cut-outs in the shape of a flask (sometimes with the flask included), gun (hopefully without the gun included), and a simple rectangle or arch. Some books are originals that have been modified while others are reprints or even specially manufactured for use as hollow books. One of my favorite providers is Secret Storage Books, which offers both converted and new hollow editions.
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| Dracula ($29.99) is one of my favorites and is sitting on my shelf at home |
Book Purses
Female bookworms may enjoy a purse made from an old book, especially if the book is one of her favorites. I love Kate Spade's classic clutches (below) and retrograndma's Nancy Drew bags at Etsy.
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| Book of the Month clutch ($325) from Kate Spade |
Furniture
Every bookworm needs the proper hardware to set the stage for an epic reading experience. Hammacher Schlemmer has some great items that go beyond the simple bookcase.
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| Bedtime Reader's Nightstand ($199.95) holds lots of reading material and keeps it all tidy. |
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| New York Public Library reading table lamp ($379.95) is the same one designed for the library by its architects. Also available in desk lamp ($359.95) and reading floor lamp ($499.95) sizes. |
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| Configurable Reading Lamp ($299.95) holds any position to give readers optimal light and reduce eye strain. |
Here are some coupons to use as you shop for your bookworm:
- Barnes & Noble is offering free shipping on orders of $25 or more
- Abe Books is offering free shipping, no minimum purchase requirement
- Krause Books, which focuses on special-interest books and collectors guides, is offering 10% off your order, with no minimum purchase requirement
Happy shopping (and reading)!
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